Career Timeline of Amy Acton: Major Achievements and Milestones

Discover the career path of Amy Acton, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Amy Acton is an American physician and public health researcher known for her role as the director of the Ohio Department of Health (2019-2020). She became a prominent figure during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading Ohio's response efforts. Her actions and recommendations were crucial in shaping the state's strategies to combat the spread of the virus.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1990: Earned medical degree

In 1990, Amy Acton earned a medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University after working to pay her way through college.

2008: Volunteer for Barack Obama's presidential campaign

In 2008, while known as Amy Beech, Acton volunteered for Barack Obama's presidential campaign, creating an email group on my.BarackObama.com called "Bexley, Yes We Can!" and publicizing campaign events using Facebook.

February 2019: Appointed Director of the Ohio Department of Health

In February 2019, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine appointed Amy Acton as the director of the Department of Health. She was his final cabinet pick, and also the first woman in the post.

March 17, 2020: Advocated for postponing the Ohio Democratic presidential primary

On March 17, 2020, Amy Acton advocated for postponing the 2020 Ohio Democratic presidential primary. Governor DeWine initially cancelled the election, but a judge ruled against his authority. Acton then ordered polling places closed, leading to the election being conducted via mail-in absentee ballot.

May 14, 2020: Gyms Reopening

On May 14, 2020, The gym reopening was part of an effort announced by Governor DeWine's administration to reopen various economic venues with the implementation of safety protocols, including physical distancing, whenever possible, and use of face masks.

May 2020: Lawsuit and Gym Reopening

In May 2020, 35 gyms sued the Ohio Department of Health, Amy Acton, and the Lake County General Health District over coronavirus-related health restrictions. A judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking penalties for non-compliance, but the state appealed. Acton then signed an order permitting gyms to reopen in the interim.

May 20, 2020: Ohio Senate rejected proposal to limit health department powers

On May 20, 2020, the Ohio Senate unanimously rejected a proposal to limit the power of DeWine and Acton by restricting Ohio Department of Health orders to 14 days, with any extensions requiring approval by a state joint legislative committee.

June 11, 2020: Resigned as Director of the Ohio Department of Health

On June 11, 2020, Amy Acton resigned as Director of the Ohio Department of Health and became a chief health advisor for Governor DeWine's administration due to concerns about being asked to sign a health order that would violate her Hippocratic Oath.

August 2020: Left position as advisor to the administration

In early August 2020, Amy Acton announced she had left her position as advisor to Governor DeWine's administration.

2020: Advised Governor DeWine during COVID-19 pandemic

In 2020, Amy Acton advised Governor Mike DeWine during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to Ohio being the first state to close schools, limit gatherings, and temporarily shut down bars and restaurants.

February 4, 2021: Stepped down from position in the Columbus Foundation

On February 4, 2021, Amy Acton stepped down from her position in the Columbus Foundation as she considered a run for the Senate in 2022.

April 2021: Chose not to run for Senate

In April 2021, Amy Acton chose not to run for the Senate in 2022, while thanking Ohioans for their support.

2022: Considered a run for the Senate

In 2022, Amy Acton considered a run for the Senate.

2022: Named president and CEO of RAPID 5

In 2022, Amy Acton was named president and chief executive officer of RAPID 5, a nonprofit organization focused on improving access to parks in Franklin County.

May 2023: Left position at RAPID 5

In May 2023, Amy Acton left her position as president and chief executive officer of RAPID 5.

2024: Expressed interest in running for Ohio Governor

In the summer of 2024, Amy Acton attended the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where she first expressed interest in running for Ohio Governor.